US20130247812A1 - Apparatus and Method for Boarding Animals Onto a Boat - Google Patents
Apparatus and Method for Boarding Animals Onto a Boat Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130247812A1 US20130247812A1 US13/735,784 US201313735784A US2013247812A1 US 20130247812 A1 US20130247812 A1 US 20130247812A1 US 201313735784 A US201313735784 A US 201313735784A US 2013247812 A1 US2013247812 A1 US 2013247812A1
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- Prior art keywords
- boarding
- assembly
- mounting
- step assembly
- strut
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B27/00—Arrangement of ship-based loading or unloading equipment for cargo or passengers
- B63B27/14—Arrangement of ship-based loading or unloading equipment for cargo or passengers of ramps, gangways or outboard ladders ; Pilot lifts
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B17/00—Vessels parts, details, or accessories, not otherwise provided for
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H4/00—Swimming or splash baths or pools
- E04H4/14—Parts, details or accessories not otherwise provided for
- E04H4/144—Means for facilitating access, e.g. step units or slides
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06C—LADDERS
- E06C1/00—Ladders in general
- E06C1/02—Ladders in general with rigid longitudinal member or members
- E06C1/04—Ladders for resting against objects, e.g. walls poles, trees
- E06C1/06—Ladders for resting against objects, e.g. walls poles, trees in one piece
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06C—LADDERS
- E06C7/00—Component parts, supporting parts, or accessories
- E06C7/18—Devices for preventing persons from falling
- E06C7/188—Accessories for temporary stabilising a ladder, e.g. temporary attaching devices
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06C—LADDERS
- E06C7/00—Component parts, supporting parts, or accessories
- E06C7/48—Ladder heads; Supports for heads of ladders for resting against objects
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to an apparatus for accessing or boarding a surface standing at least partially in and above a water surface, such as boat, dock, landing, raft or other similar surfaces, and particularly to a step apparatus attachable to a portion of a surface standing at least partially in and above a water surface for boarding animals from the water onto the surface.
- a boarding device to assist animals, such as dogs, onto the boat, dock, or other surface from the surrounding water.
- animals such as dogs
- Such devices are presently available for use on boats, but these devices are unstable, unable to attach to different boat hull designs, may be difficult to configure for use and transport, may be difficult to attach or detach, and requires awkward or uncomfortable animal positions.
- the present invention is a boat boarding apparatus for animals, such as dogs, designed to attach to a boat hull gunwale or transom lip.
- the apparatus may also be mountable to docks, rafts, swimming pools, and other structures associated with water; however, to provide spatial arrangement of the invention, discussion of the apparatus will focus on its mountability to a boat hull gunwale or transom lip .
- the apparatus comprises a boat boarding step assembly, a boat hull mounting assembly attached to the boarding step assembly for connecting the boarding step assembly to the boat hull gunwale or transom lip, and a set of strut assemblies for providing additional support to said boat hull.
- the mounting assembly provides positive engagement with the boat hull lip via clamping forces.
- the apparatus is generally adaptable to any existing boat hull design.
- the boarding step assembly of the apparatus preferably comprises at least a pair of parallel runners and a plurality of spaced platforms spanning the space between the parallel runners, forming the steps.
- the mounting assembly is preferably attached to each of the parallel runners, preferably at the top of the set of steps.
- the mounting assembly is configured to attach to an existing boat hull lip by a clamping force.
- the mounting assembly comprises a pair of mounting brackets and hooks, one at the top of each parallel runner, configured to clamp to the boat hull lip.
- the apparatus may further have a pair of independently mounted strut assemblies, one attached to each parallel runner, that extend to abut the boat hull, in order that once the strut assemblies are in the desired position, the apparatus remains stable while attached to the boat.
- Each of the strut assemblies is configured to translate both horizontally and vertically, independently of the other, to work with various boat hull shapes and sizes.
- the mounting assembly comprises a mounting bar spanning the space between the mounting brackets attached to the top of the parallel runners.
- the mounting bar can then be bolted or clamped to the boat, dock, or other above-water surface.
- the present invention also minimizes the presence and effect of external forces due to its high open area in the x, y, and z planes, created by apertures in the parallel runners, the platforms forming the steps, and the open space between each platform. Additionally, the positive attachment by clamping force of this apparatus to the boat hull gunwale or transom lip also minimizes the movement of the steps relative to the boat when subjected to these external forces.
- FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a boarding apparatus for animals according to the present invention.
- FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of the boarding apparatus of FIG. 1 , with strut assemblies capable of being independently adjusted horizontally inwardly and outwardly.
- FIG. 2B is a top perspective view of the boarding apparatus, demonstrating the strut assemblies capable of being independently adjusted vertically with respect to the position of the strut assemblies of FIG. 2A .
- FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the boarding apparatus demonstrating the rotatability of the mounting assemblies.
- FIG. 4 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 in a storage configuration.
- FIG. 5 is a side view of the apparatus demonstrating the rotatability of the runners relative to the mounting assembly while the apparatus remains attached to a boat hull.
- FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the apparatus incorporating an alternative mounting assembly.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 being mounted on a boat hull.
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 being mounted on a boat in a second position.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 being mounted on a boat in a third position.
- the boat does not have a sufficient ladder structure for a boat boarding apparatus to engage, or possibly the boat is used in shallower waters where a boat boarding apparatus having an extended length is not feasible.
- the boarding apparatus 110 provides an arrangement that can address such boat configurations. While the apparatus is generally described with respect for use with a boat, it is understood that the present invention is capable of engaging other water based structures, such as docks, swimming pool edges, rafts, and similar structures.
- FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the present invention.
- a boarding apparatus 110 for animals, such as dogs, is shown and described.
- the apparatus 110 is configured to attach to the existing boat hull gunwale or transom lip 180 of a boat 5 , as shown in FIG. 5 .
- the apparatus 110 comprises a boarding step assembly 111 .
- the boarding step assembly 111 can be of any shape or form that will assist an animal in boarding a boat from the water.
- the step assembly 111 preferably comprises at least two elongated runners 112 positioned parallel to one another.
- Parallel refers to arrangements that are parallel or are substantially parallel to one another.
- a plurality of flat platforms 114 are spaced apart perpendicularly along the length of the elongated runners 112 . These platforms 114 make up the steps of the step assembly 111 .
- the runners 112 may be designed with a plurality of apertures 113 to increase the open area, and thus reduce external forces from the surrounding water on the apparatus 110 in the z-direction.
- the platforms 114 may also include apertures 115 to increase the open area and reduce external forces in the y-direction.
- the spaced apart configuration of the platforms 114 increases the open area and reduces external forces in the x-direction. This minimization of external forces is beneficial to minimize movement of the apparatus 110 with relation to the boat hull 190 and reduce potential for damage to the apparatus 110 and the boat 5 .
- the boat boarding apparatus 110 may also comprise a boat hull mounting assembly 120 and a strut mounting assembly 130 .
- the strut mounting assembly 130 comprises a pair of struts 132 and a securing mechanism 134 .
- the struts 132 are attached to the runners 112 by a releasable securing mechanism 134 .
- the securing mechanism 134 allows for the struts 132 to be independently adjusted inwardly and outwardly with respect to the apparatus 110 and the boat 5 . As demonstrated in FIG.
- the struts may be adjusted vertically upwards or downwards, independent of one another, to provide the appropriate mounting angle with the boat hull 190 .
- the arrangement of the strut assembly 130 allows the apparatus 110 to be positioned in various configurations so that it may be mounted at the desired angle regardless of the boat hull shape. It also allows the apparatus 110 to be in contact with the hull 190 in the area of maximum strength and rigidity.
- the strut assembly 130 may further include a connecting member between the struts 132 to distribute the force against the boat hull 190 (not shown).
- the securing mechanisms 134 are arranged to securely hold the struts 132 to the boarding steps 111 .
- the preferred arrangement allows for the struts 132 to be individually adjusted and repositioned as needed, and any type of mechanism that would secure the struts 132 to the runners 112 would be within the scope of the present invention.
- the struts 132 are preferably removable as well, which assists in positioning and repositioning the apparatus 110 , as well as storage of the apparatus.
- a type of securing mechanism 134 would be a threaded fastener 136 that would intersect holes 138 located on the runners 112 and corresponding holes 140 located on the struts 132 .
- the fasteners 136 may be secured in a threaded securing mechanism, such as by a wing nut on the opposing side. To release, the fasteners 136 can be rotatably loosened so that they are no longer intersecting the struts 132 permitting the strut assembly 130 to be repositioned as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
- Other securing mechanisms 134 could be used, such as a pair of ball detent pins (not shown) placed through the holes 138 located in the runner 112 that interlock with holes 140 located in the struts 132 .
- the securing mechanism allows for an adjustable arrangement of the strut assemblies 130 as discussed, it is understood that such a mechanism would remain within the scope of the present invention.
- the apparatus 110 provides for various strut 132 positions to facilitate use in differing conditions and with many different boat hull designs.
- the struts 132 may be placed at various locations up and down the runners 112 in any of the holes 138 , with each of the struts 132 being positioned independently at any of the vertical positions. As illustrated in FIGS. 7-9 , the struts 132 may be positioned so that they better conform to the shape of the boat hull 190 . In FIG. 7 the struts 132 are positioned equally away from the boat hull 190 . However, as shown in FIG. 8 , one of the struts 132 is positioned in a different inward position from the other in order to follow the curve in the boat hull 190 .
- This adjustability and versatility provides for a more stable attachment to the boat hull 190 that is safer for both animal and animal owner, and less harmful to the boat. Such adjustment could also allow for one of the struts 132 to be positioned horizontally one above the other, as shown in FIG. 9 .
- the mounting assembly 120 works in conjunction with the strut assembly 130 to provide a secure and stable arrangement for the apparatus 110 .
- the boat hull mounting assembly 120 comprises retaining hooks 122 , mounting brackets 124 , and securing mechanisms 126 .
- the retaining hooks 122 are attached to the mounting brackets 124 and retained by the securing mechanisms 126 .
- the retaining hooks 122 rotate, as shown in FIG. 3 , for ease of attachment of the apparatus 110 to the boat hull lip 180 (depicted in FIG. 5 ).
- the retaining hook 122 rotation is accomplished with the use of a track located in the hook 122 through which one of the securing mechanisms 126 is located. This relationship allows the hook to rotate about the securing mechanism 126 and allows the hook 122 to be secured in any rotated position.
- the arrangement allows for the apparatus 110 to be disconnected from the boat hull lip 180 by rotating the retaining hook 122 and releasing it from the lip 180 , and repositioned as necessary at other positions on the boat 5 . It should be known that any means that allows the hook 122 to be moved and secured in place on a boat hull lip 180 would be within the scope of the present invention. According to the embodiment drawn, this is accomplished with a bolt and wing-nut knob system.
- the securing means 126 may alternatively be positioned on and manipulated from the outside of the mounting assembly, as shown in FIG. 3 .
- the hook apparatus 122 may be reversed (not shown) such that the backside of the hook 122 is used in a clamping fashion to be secured with the hull lip 180 . This may be used as desired, or particularly, when the hook 122 and lip 180 are not of analogous size or configuration, such that the hooks can be used as shown in the Figures.
- the hook 122 may encompass any design, shape, or configuration that will provide a positive engagement, such as hooking or clamping, with the boat hull 190 .
- FIG. 4 shows how the apparatus 110 can be repositioned for storage.
- the struts 132 may be placed in parallel alignment with the runners 112 and secured in the same fashion as when the struts 132 are used for support. That is, by aligning the holes 138 in the runners 112 with the holes in the struts 132 and securing the struts 132 to their respective runner 112 with the securing mechanisms 134 (not visible in this illustration). Additionally, the retaining hooks 122 may be pivoted inward and closer to the mounting bracket 124 , as shown.
- the apparatus 110 may also have a plurality of spaced apart storage feet 150 extending from the terminal end of the mounting bracket 124 , which assist with the balance of the apparatus 110 for upright storage.
- FIG. 5 depicts another possible feature of the apparatus 110 that allows for the apparatus 110 to be rotated out of the water without disconnecting the apparatus 110 from the boat hull lip 180 .
- the mounting brackets 124 may be attached to the boarding step assembly 111 at a pivot point 125 . If, for whatever reason, the boarding steps 111 are no longer needed or wanted in the water, the pivot point 125 allows the user to rotate the boarding step assembly 111 upward and out of the water, as shown.
- the mounting assembly 220 may comprise a mounting bar 222 attached to the mounting brackets 124 .
- the mounting bar may further have at least one securing device 226 .
- the mounting bar 222 may have holes (not shown) in which the securing device 226 interfaces or it may have a track (hidden) with movable retainers (hidden) which interface with the securing device 226 allowing the securing device 226 to be placed anywhere along the mounting bar 222 .
- the securing device 226 may be embodied as a bolt, clamp, slotted sheet of material, or other similar device.
- the apparatus 110 would be secured to the boat hull lip 180 , or any horizontal surface, by placing the mounting bar 222 on top of the boat hull lip 180 with the securing devices 226 positioned to anchor through the hull lip 180 , or any horizontal surface.
- the securing device 226 such as a pair of bolts as shown, the interfacing side 228 of each bolt 226 abuts the underside of the boat hull lip 180 .
- the mounting bar 222 could be moved to different positions, depending on the particular configuration of the boat and the apparatus 110 .
- the apparatus 110 provides for an apparatus and means for an animal to board a boat or other above water surface, from a body of water.
- the design of the apparatus allows for a secure and stable mounted boarding apparatus, while allowing for the apparatus to be adapted for use on various types of boats and water vessels.
- the invention also discloses a method for using the apparatus 110 in conjunction with a boat hull gunwale or transom lip 180 , as shown in FIG. 5 .
- the apparatus 110 may be positioned with the mounting brackets 124 in place on the top of the boat hull lip 180 .
- the retaining hooks 122 are rotated inwards so that at least a portion of each retaining hook 122 is underneath the boat hull lip 180 , thereby creating a clamping force.
- the securing mechanisms 126 are then tightened thereby securing the boat hull mounting assembly 120 to the boat hull lip 180 .
- the struts 132 may be positioned in a configuration that allows for the preferred boarding step angle.
- the present invention provides an improved device over the prior art, by allowing multiple positioning of the mounting assembly to accommodate various structures, e.g. boats of difference shapes and designs, docks, floating docks, etc.
- the mounting assemblies of the present invention are independently adjustable, which contributes to the multiple positioning of the invention.
- the present invention is also designed to limit damage to the surface that it is being mounted to, but also limit potential damage and wear and tear of the apparatus itself, as it is preferred that the apparatus is generally formed of a material that is non-corrosive, e.g. a plastic material. Such a design will also not deteriorate as other wood or steel based devices may, or absorb water as wood will.
- floatation material may be attached to the apparatus to prevent sinking if dropped in the water.
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Abstract
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 61/585,783 filed 12 Dec. 2012.
- The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for accessing or boarding a surface standing at least partially in and above a water surface, such as boat, dock, landing, raft or other similar surfaces, and particularly to a step apparatus attachable to a portion of a surface standing at least partially in and above a water surface for boarding animals from the water onto the surface.
- It is common for animals to accompany their owners on boat trips. During these trips, the human owners, as well as the animals, may choose to enter the water. Reboarding the boat, or accessing a raft, dock, or other surface from the water is a challenge for many reasons, including forces by currents and waves, as well as lack of ground support on which to push off to re-board the boat or access the surface. This is especially difficult for animals, such as dogs, that cannot make use of the boat or dock ladder, if present, that is designed to assist humans. Furthermore, animals, such as dogs, are unable to pull themselves up onto the boat or dock as humans can. Therefore, it is often the owners themselves who have the difficult task of retrieving their animal from the water. Not only is this a challenge, but it also involves getting wet and is potentially dangerous for both the humans and the animals.
- As such, there is a need for a boarding device to assist animals, such as dogs, onto the boat, dock, or other surface from the surrounding water. Such devices are presently available for use on boats, but these devices are unstable, unable to attach to different boat hull designs, may be difficult to configure for use and transport, may be difficult to attach or detach, and requires awkward or uncomfortable animal positions.
- In addition, the design of many prior devices makes those devices susceptible to high external forces. The external forces are due to the high surface area of the devices in the planes of the water movement and may cause high degrees of movement relative to the boat hull or other above-water surface. This can be intimidating to the animal and may discourage use. This movement can also result in damage to the boat hull or surface, and/or damage to the boarding apparatus, with the potential for injuring the animal. Thus, there remains a need for a stable, pet-friendly, simple, and universally adaptable animal boarding apparatus, with a design that minimizes the presence and effect of external forces, and conforms to various hull constructions.
- In view of these drawbacks, the present invention is a boat boarding apparatus for animals, such as dogs, designed to attach to a boat hull gunwale or transom lip. The apparatus may also be mountable to docks, rafts, swimming pools, and other structures associated with water; however, to provide spatial arrangement of the invention, discussion of the apparatus will focus on its mountability to a boat hull gunwale or transom lip . The apparatus comprises a boat boarding step assembly, a boat hull mounting assembly attached to the boarding step assembly for connecting the boarding step assembly to the boat hull gunwale or transom lip, and a set of strut assemblies for providing additional support to said boat hull. The mounting assembly provides positive engagement with the boat hull lip via clamping forces.
- Another feature of the apparatus of the present invention is that the apparatus is generally adaptable to any existing boat hull design. The boarding step assembly of the apparatus preferably comprises at least a pair of parallel runners and a plurality of spaced platforms spanning the space between the parallel runners, forming the steps.
- The mounting assembly is preferably attached to each of the parallel runners, preferably at the top of the set of steps. The mounting assembly is configured to attach to an existing boat hull lip by a clamping force. In one embodiment of the invention, the mounting assembly comprises a pair of mounting brackets and hooks, one at the top of each parallel runner, configured to clamp to the boat hull lip. The apparatus may further have a pair of independently mounted strut assemblies, one attached to each parallel runner, that extend to abut the boat hull, in order that once the strut assemblies are in the desired position, the apparatus remains stable while attached to the boat. Each of the strut assemblies is configured to translate both horizontally and vertically, independently of the other, to work with various boat hull shapes and sizes.
- In one embodiment, the mounting assembly comprises a mounting bar spanning the space between the mounting brackets attached to the top of the parallel runners. The mounting bar can then be bolted or clamped to the boat, dock, or other above-water surface.
- The present invention also minimizes the presence and effect of external forces due to its high open area in the x, y, and z planes, created by apertures in the parallel runners, the platforms forming the steps, and the open space between each platform. Additionally, the positive attachment by clamping force of this apparatus to the boat hull gunwale or transom lip also minimizes the movement of the steps relative to the boat when subjected to these external forces.
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FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a boarding apparatus for animals according to the present invention. -
FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of the boarding apparatus ofFIG. 1 , with strut assemblies capable of being independently adjusted horizontally inwardly and outwardly. -
FIG. 2B is a top perspective view of the boarding apparatus, demonstrating the strut assemblies capable of being independently adjusted vertically with respect to the position of the strut assemblies ofFIG. 2A . -
FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the boarding apparatus demonstrating the rotatability of the mounting assemblies. -
FIG. 4 is a side view of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 in a storage configuration. -
FIG. 5 is a side view of the apparatus demonstrating the rotatability of the runners relative to the mounting assembly while the apparatus remains attached to a boat hull. -
FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the apparatus incorporating an alternative mounting assembly. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 being mounted on a boat hull. -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 being mounted on a boat in a second position. -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 being mounted on a boat in a third position. - Although the disclosure hereof is detailed and exact to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, the physical embodiments herein disclosed merely exemplify the invention which may be embodied in other specific structures. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention.
- Often with certain types of boats, such as fishing or jon boats, or other shallow boats, the boat does not have a sufficient ladder structure for a boat boarding apparatus to engage, or possibly the boat is used in shallower waters where a boat boarding apparatus having an extended length is not feasible. The
boarding apparatus 110 provides an arrangement that can address such boat configurations. While the apparatus is generally described with respect for use with a boat, it is understood that the present invention is capable of engaging other water based structures, such as docks, swimming pool edges, rafts, and similar structures. -
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the present invention. Aboarding apparatus 110 for animals, such as dogs, is shown and described. Theapparatus 110 is configured to attach to the existing boat hull gunwale ortransom lip 180 of aboat 5, as shown inFIG. 5 . Theapparatus 110 comprises aboarding step assembly 111. Theboarding step assembly 111 can be of any shape or form that will assist an animal in boarding a boat from the water. - Still referring to
FIG. 1 , thestep assembly 111 preferably comprises at least twoelongated runners 112 positioned parallel to one another. Parallel refers to arrangements that are parallel or are substantially parallel to one another. A plurality offlat platforms 114 are spaced apart perpendicularly along the length of theelongated runners 112. Theseplatforms 114 make up the steps of thestep assembly 111. - Another feature of the present invention is shown and described in
FIG. 1 . To limit stress and undue force on the apparatus from external forces, such as waves or wakes in the water, therunners 112 may be designed with a plurality ofapertures 113 to increase the open area, and thus reduce external forces from the surrounding water on theapparatus 110 in the z-direction. Similarly, theplatforms 114 may also includeapertures 115 to increase the open area and reduce external forces in the y-direction. Similarly, the spaced apart configuration of theplatforms 114 increases the open area and reduces external forces in the x-direction. This minimization of external forces is beneficial to minimize movement of theapparatus 110 with relation to theboat hull 190 and reduce potential for damage to theapparatus 110 and theboat 5. - The
boat boarding apparatus 110 may also comprise a boathull mounting assembly 120 and astrut mounting assembly 130. Referring toFIGS. 2A and 2B , thestrut mounting assembly 130 comprises a pair ofstruts 132 and asecuring mechanism 134. As shown inFIG. 2A , thestruts 132 are attached to therunners 112 by areleasable securing mechanism 134. Thesecuring mechanism 134 allows for thestruts 132 to be independently adjusted inwardly and outwardly with respect to theapparatus 110 and theboat 5. As demonstrated inFIG. 2B , the struts may be adjusted vertically upwards or downwards, independent of one another, to provide the appropriate mounting angle with theboat hull 190. The arrangement of thestrut assembly 130 allows theapparatus 110 to be positioned in various configurations so that it may be mounted at the desired angle regardless of the boat hull shape. It also allows theapparatus 110 to be in contact with thehull 190 in the area of maximum strength and rigidity. Thestrut assembly 130 may further include a connecting member between thestruts 132 to distribute the force against the boat hull 190 (not shown). - Referring further to
FIG. 2B , the securingmechanisms 134 are arranged to securely hold thestruts 132 to the boarding steps 111. As stated, the preferred arrangement allows for thestruts 132 to be individually adjusted and repositioned as needed, and any type of mechanism that would secure thestruts 132 to therunners 112 would be within the scope of the present invention. Thestruts 132 are preferably removable as well, which assists in positioning and repositioning theapparatus 110, as well as storage of the apparatus. For example, a type ofsecuring mechanism 134, as shown, would be a threadedfastener 136 that would intersectholes 138 located on therunners 112 and corresponding holes 140 located on thestruts 132. Thefasteners 136 may be secured in a threaded securing mechanism, such as by a wing nut on the opposing side. To release, thefasteners 136 can be rotatably loosened so that they are no longer intersecting thestruts 132 permitting thestrut assembly 130 to be repositioned as shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B . Other securingmechanisms 134 could be used, such as a pair of ball detent pins (not shown) placed through theholes 138 located in therunner 112 that interlock with holes 140 located in thestruts 132. Provided that the securing mechanism allows for an adjustable arrangement of thestrut assemblies 130 as discussed, it is understood that such a mechanism would remain within the scope of the present invention. - As stated above, the
apparatus 110 provides forvarious strut 132 positions to facilitate use in differing conditions and with many different boat hull designs. Thestruts 132 may be placed at various locations up and down therunners 112 in any of theholes 138, with each of thestruts 132 being positioned independently at any of the vertical positions. As illustrated inFIGS. 7-9 , thestruts 132 may be positioned so that they better conform to the shape of theboat hull 190. InFIG. 7 thestruts 132 are positioned equally away from theboat hull 190. However, as shown inFIG. 8 , one of thestruts 132 is positioned in a different inward position from the other in order to follow the curve in theboat hull 190. This adjustability and versatility provides for a more stable attachment to theboat hull 190 that is safer for both animal and animal owner, and less harmful to the boat. Such adjustment could also allow for one of thestruts 132 to be positioned horizontally one above the other, as shown inFIG. 9 . - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , the mountingassembly 120 is discussed in further detail. The mountingassembly 120 works in conjunction with thestrut assembly 130 to provide a secure and stable arrangement for theapparatus 110. The boathull mounting assembly 120 comprises retaininghooks 122, mountingbrackets 124, and securingmechanisms 126. As shown inFIG. 1 , the retaining hooks 122 are attached to the mountingbrackets 124 and retained by the securingmechanisms 126. The retaining hooks 122 rotate, as shown inFIG. 3 , for ease of attachment of theapparatus 110 to the boat hull lip 180 (depicted inFIG. 5 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the retaininghook 122 rotation is accomplished with the use of a track located in thehook 122 through which one of the securingmechanisms 126 is located. This relationship allows the hook to rotate about thesecuring mechanism 126 and allows thehook 122 to be secured in any rotated position. The arrangement allows for theapparatus 110 to be disconnected from theboat hull lip 180 by rotating the retaininghook 122 and releasing it from thelip 180, and repositioned as necessary at other positions on theboat 5. It should be known that any means that allows thehook 122 to be moved and secured in place on aboat hull lip 180 would be within the scope of the present invention. According to the embodiment drawn, this is accomplished with a bolt and wing-nut knob system. The securing means 126 may alternatively be positioned on and manipulated from the outside of the mounting assembly, as shown inFIG. 3 . Furthermore, thehook apparatus 122 may be reversed (not shown) such that the backside of thehook 122 is used in a clamping fashion to be secured with thehull lip 180. This may be used as desired, or particularly, when thehook 122 andlip 180 are not of analogous size or configuration, such that the hooks can be used as shown in the Figures. It should also be understood that thehook 122 may encompass any design, shape, or configuration that will provide a positive engagement, such as hooking or clamping, with theboat hull 190. -
FIG. 4 shows how theapparatus 110 can be repositioned for storage. Thestruts 132 may be placed in parallel alignment with therunners 112 and secured in the same fashion as when thestruts 132 are used for support. That is, by aligning theholes 138 in therunners 112 with the holes in thestruts 132 and securing thestruts 132 to theirrespective runner 112 with the securing mechanisms 134 (not visible in this illustration). Additionally, the retaining hooks 122 may be pivoted inward and closer to the mountingbracket 124, as shown. For purposes of storage, theapparatus 110 may also have a plurality of spaced apartstorage feet 150 extending from the terminal end of the mountingbracket 124, which assist with the balance of theapparatus 110 for upright storage. -
FIG. 5 depicts another possible feature of theapparatus 110 that allows for theapparatus 110 to be rotated out of the water without disconnecting theapparatus 110 from theboat hull lip 180. The mountingbrackets 124 may be attached to theboarding step assembly 111 at apivot point 125. If, for whatever reason, the boarding steps 111 are no longer needed or wanted in the water, thepivot point 125 allows the user to rotate theboarding step assembly 111 upward and out of the water, as shown. - Another
embodiment 220 of the mounting assembly is depicted inFIG. 6 . The mountingassembly 220 may comprise a mountingbar 222 attached to the mountingbrackets 124. The mounting bar may further have at least onesecuring device 226. The mountingbar 222 may have holes (not shown) in which thesecuring device 226 interfaces or it may have a track (hidden) with movable retainers (hidden) which interface with the securingdevice 226 allowing the securingdevice 226 to be placed anywhere along the mountingbar 222. The securingdevice 226 may be embodied as a bolt, clamp, slotted sheet of material, or other similar device. As shown, theapparatus 110 would be secured to theboat hull lip 180, or any horizontal surface, by placing the mountingbar 222 on top of theboat hull lip 180 with the securingdevices 226 positioned to anchor through thehull lip 180, or any horizontal surface. Upon tightening the securingdevice 226, such as a pair of bolts as shown, the interfacingside 228 of eachbolt 226 abuts the underside of theboat hull lip 180. Further, it should be understood that the mountingbar 222 could be moved to different positions, depending on the particular configuration of the boat and theapparatus 110. - As demonstrated, the
apparatus 110 provides for an apparatus and means for an animal to board a boat or other above water surface, from a body of water. The design of the apparatus allows for a secure and stable mounted boarding apparatus, while allowing for the apparatus to be adapted for use on various types of boats and water vessels. - The invention also discloses a method for using the
apparatus 110 in conjunction with a boat hull gunwale ortransom lip 180, as shown inFIG. 5 . Theapparatus 110 may be positioned with the mountingbrackets 124 in place on the top of theboat hull lip 180. The retaining hooks 122 are rotated inwards so that at least a portion of each retaininghook 122 is underneath theboat hull lip 180, thereby creating a clamping force. The securingmechanisms 126 are then tightened thereby securing the boathull mounting assembly 120 to theboat hull lip 180. Once theapparatus 110 is in place, thestruts 132 may be positioned in a configuration that allows for the preferred boarding step angle. This is done by positioning thestruts 132 at a location along theparallel runners 112, adjusting thestruts 132 inwardly or outwardly until making contact with theboat hull 190 at the preferred angle, and tightening the securingmechanisms 134 to maintain the position. - Thus, the present invention provides an improved device over the prior art, by allowing multiple positioning of the mounting assembly to accommodate various structures, e.g. boats of difference shapes and designs, docks, floating docks, etc. The mounting assemblies of the present invention are independently adjustable, which contributes to the multiple positioning of the invention. The present invention is also designed to limit damage to the surface that it is being mounted to, but also limit potential damage and wear and tear of the apparatus itself, as it is preferred that the apparatus is generally formed of a material that is non-corrosive, e.g. a plastic material. Such a design will also not deteriorate as other wood or steel based devices may, or absorb water as wood will. In addition, floatation material may be attached to the apparatus to prevent sinking if dropped in the water.
- The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention.
Claims (20)
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US201261685783P | 2012-03-26 | 2012-03-26 | |
US13/735,784 US9815529B2 (en) | 2012-03-26 | 2013-01-07 | Apparatus and method for boarding animals onto a boat |
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US10427761B2 (en) * | 2014-04-14 | 2019-10-01 | Premier Marine, Inc. | Retractable marine boarding ladder |
CN110615071A (en) * | 2018-06-19 | 2019-12-27 | 五度自动化设备(深圳)有限公司 | Ladder stand |
CN112983248A (en) * | 2021-02-05 | 2021-06-18 | 杭州博途船用机电设备有限公司 | New energy walking type self-balancing boarding device and control method thereof |
US20210396016A1 (en) * | 2020-06-17 | 2021-12-23 | Michael A. Turner, SR. | Waterslide dog ladder |
CN115162940A (en) * | 2022-07-01 | 2022-10-11 | 上海外高桥造船有限公司 | High-altitude hook-dismounting safety inclined support ladder for building ship |
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